Jack and Michelle paddle their way to victory
Local paddlers shine at the Dabulamanzi Canoe Club race held in Liebensbergvlei River in Free State.
Michelle Reitsma, a paddler from Bordeaux, came second place in the mixed pairs division of a river race on the Liebensbergvlei River in the Free State.
Among the local paddlers was a 14-year-old boy Jack Heenan from Blairgowrie. He was impressive when viewed on the rapids comfortably, without hesitation, sailing through like a natural and finished the first day of the 30km race section comfortably in a time of 3h4m, as the 6th K1 (Single kayak) finisher, and as the first and only U14 paddler on the river.
Reitsma partnered with experienced paddler Chad Andrews. She explained that the race was extremely well organised.
“I learnt so much and had the most wonderful time. I cannot wait to do it again and again. Biggest thanks ever to my amazing rockstar partner Chad for all your help.”
She added that the biggest challenge she faced was learning to relax as it helps everything to go much more smoothly.
“I’ve never paddled in water like that before so it was a big jump for me. But by listening to Chad reminding me to breathe through the swells I was good and we worked together as a team. By the second day, I was not nervous and it flowed more naturally.”
“My favourite moments were twofold. Making it down both weirs successfully as I’ve never shot a weir before, as well as the last few bubblies towards the end of the race. These bubblies have a bit of a reputation of catching tired paddlers at the end so I’m really pleased we made them,” added Reitsma.
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